Bhubaneswar: In a shocking incident, the District Child Protection unit in Malkangiri rescued a two-day-old newborn baby boy from being sold.
The mother, Sabita Bate, a resident of Dumaliguda village, had given birth to the child and was allegedly persuaded by a cook from a voluntary organisation, Sanjukta Pal, to sell the baby to a childless couple.
The District Child Protection Committee intervened just in time, catching the mother and the alleged buyer in the act of exchanging money. Both the mother and the child were rescued and are currently being cared for at a shelter home.
A case has been registered at the Mathili police station, and an investigation is underway. The district child protection officer, Narayan Das, confirmed that the mother and baby are safe and receiving treatment. Further action will be taken based on the police inquiry report.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of young mothers and the need for support systems to protect them and their children. The District Child Protection unit’s swift action has ensured the safety of the newborn, and efforts are being made to provide the mother and child with the necessary care and support.
“The mother and baby were in the place from where we rescued the newborn. After rescuing them, we have filed a case at Mathili police station. Both the mother and baby are now under our custody. Both are in good health. They are also under treatment. Based on the police inquiry report, the next course of action will be taken,” said Narayan Das, district child protection officer, Malkangiri.